The Untapped Brain: Where is 90% of Consciousness?

Every day, we wake up, get out of bed, and go about our routine tasks as if they were pre-programmed. But have you ever wondered if the 10% of the brain that we “use” each day is truly all that we can do with our brain? This question may seem simple, but behind it lies a far greater mystery, like a veil obscuring things that science, philosophy, and even technology have yet to explain. So why do we only use a small portion of our brains? Where are the rest of it… and can we unlock its potential?
You’ve probably heard the theory that “we only use 10% of our brain.” But is this true? These questions have lingered in my mind for years, as I’ve sat amidst piles of books and research on the brain, neurons, and the missing pieces in the puzzle of human consciousness. I remember once, as a neuroscience student, sitting in the lab, watching the electronic signals on my computer screen that I had just recorded from an experimental mouse. Neural currents flowed through brain cells like a continuous stream. But I wondered, could the human brain truly “stop” at such a level?
A fascinating point in recent brain research is that while scientists have identified most of the key areas of the brain and their functions, there are still parts that remain unexplained. One of the big questions is: Does the brain that we cannot “use” really serve no purpose? Or have we just not figured out how to tap into it effectively?
This question began to lead me on a journey that was both mysterious and complex. Experts believe that our brain is not merely an organ for memory or calculation, but a sophisticated machine capable of receiving, processing, and responding to information automatically. So if we only use a small portion of our brain, what are the rest of the areas doing?
To understand this better, we must look at the brain’s development and consciousness not just from a scientific perspective, but also from a philosophical one. The questions do not stop at “Why?” but open up more profound ones: “If we better understand the brain, can we unlock its potential to achieve things we never imagined before?”
What is consciousness? This is a question that both science and philosophy have wrestled with for a long time. A seemingly simple question, yet one with immense complexity. According to a famous study, consciousness is not a fixed state but a continuous process of change. Consciousness is the ability to perceive and respond to the world around us. While some actions may be performed automatically (like breathing or brushing teeth), others require the brain’s active intervention.
I recall the first time I read about Ivan Pavlov’s famous experiment, where he discovered conditioned reflexes. When he rang a bell before feeding dogs, they would begin salivating even in the absence of food. This not only proved that the brain can remember and respond to external stimuli but also revealed a greater capability: the brain can learn and adjust our behavior through connections we are not even aware of.
So, if the brain can learn and respond to stimuli automatically, can we harness this power to enhance our cognitive and thinking abilities? Could we “unlock” these unexplored areas of the brain and become beings with superior intelligence?
A story I read recently relates to this issue, involving a study on professional boxers. In the study, boxers were asked to perform rapid movements without much conscious thought. The results showed that their brains automatically remembered and performed these movements, while they did not have to consciously control them. This suggests that the brain has the ability to automate many activities we are unaware of. But if we could apply these automatic reflexes to other areas, like creativity or problem-solving, could we unlock the brain’s untapped potential?
The relationship between the brain and consciousness is one of the most complex issues science faces. The brain, with its billions of neurons, is the place where all sensory information is received and processed. But consciousness is not simply awareness of the world around us. It also includes self-awareness, the ability to think about ourselves, and the capacity to control behavior.
Another story I’d like to share is about an experiment by scientist Benjamin Libet in the 1980s. In this experiment, participants were asked to press a button when they felt like doing so, while recording brain activity during the process. The shocking result was that brain activity appeared before the participants “decided” to press the button. This raises the question: Is consciousness really an autonomous process? Or is it just a reflection of brain activity that we cannot control?
Interestingly, even though we cannot fully control all brain activity, we can still develop self-awareness and take charge of our actions. This leads me to another question: If we can “expand” consciousness, can we unlock those unexplored parts of the brain, helping us achieve capabilities we never thought possible?
The question of how much of our brain’s potential remains untapped is one I’ve thought about deeply throughout my research. If only 10% of our brain is actually “used,” then where is the other 90%? And can we tap into this portion to develop our intellect and potential?
One notable study I’ve read is about the brain’s ability to change over time. Scientists have shown that the brain is not a fixed structure but can adapt and change according to environmental conditions and life experiences. This proves that while we may not be able to “unlock” all areas of the brain immediately, we can still develop and tap into unused potential through learning and practice.
So if we could tap into 90% of the brain’s unused potential, what might these abilities allow us to achieve? Recent studies on artificial intelligence and technology show that when we better understand how the brain works, we can apply similar principles to develop smarter computer systems. These abilities could be the key to creating groundbreaking technologies in the future.
I once read an intriguing article about a scientist named Albert Einstein. It is often said that he used a larger portion of his brain’s capacity compared to an average person, though there is no scientific evidence to verify this. However, what stands out is that Einstein always believed that the brain had limitless potential if unlocked properly. And perhaps, that is the key to unlocking our own brain’s potential.

Factors Affecting the Exploration of the Brain
We might think that the human brain is a remarkable organ that we could fully tap into if we had enough time and technology. However, the reality is not always so simple. Unlocking the brain’s potential depends not only on its inherent capabilities but also on many other factors, including genetics, social environment, and daily habits. So, what truly affects our ability to harness our brain?
One of the first factors to consider is genetics. While we may strive to maximize the potential of our brain, each individual brain is unique, and genetics plays a significant role in determining its structure and capabilities. In a recent study on intelligence, scientists pointed out that genetics accounts for about 50% to 80% of a person’s intellectual capacity. This means that no matter how hard we try, some factors, like memory capacity, information processing speed, and creativity, may be limited by genetic factors.
However, don’t be discouraged. Although genetics plays an important role, the environment and society are factors that can help us develop our brain’s capabilities. Our daily experiences, social relationships, and the challenges we face can stimulate and expand the brain’s potential in remarkable ways. Neuroscientists have shown that the human brain can change and restructure itself through new experiences. This concept is known as neuroplasticity, or the brain’s plasticity. The more challenges we face, the more our brains learn, adapt, and expand their ability to process and store information.
My own experience with neuroplasticity began during the early years of my career when I observed a group of high school students learning a new foreign language. After a few weeks, I noticed that not only had their language skills improved, but their thinking and problem-solving abilities had also noticeably changed. These young people weren’t just learning a new language; they were stimulating other parts of their brains, enhancing their creativity and analytical abilities. Since then, I’ve believed that the human brain is not a fixed tool, but a flexible system that can change and grow over time when nurtured properly.
At this point, an important question arises: How do our daily habits influence the exploration of our brain? I remember once having a conversation with a friend about how the brain changes with lifestyle habits. My friend, a creative person, shared that he spent at least an hour each day meditating, not just to reduce stress but also to improve his creativity. He explained that meditation helps him “shut off” disorganized thoughts and enhances his ability to focus, creating space for new ideas. So, can meditation truly help unlock untapped potential in the brain?
The answer is yes. Meditation, along with practices like yoga or mindfulness, can positively alter brain activity. Studies have shown that regular meditators can enhance activity in brain areas associated with focus, creativity, and emotional regulation. This shows that one of the key factors in unlocking the brain’s potential is our habits and lifestyle. A healthy diet, sufficient sleep, regular exercise, and stress management all contribute to optimizing brain performance. Clearly, the brain is not just a “cognitive tool”; it’s more like a muscle—the more we exercise it, the stronger it becomes.
It’s fascinating to realize that small changes in our daily routines can have profound effects on our cognitive abilities and intellectual development. So, perhaps the remaining unexplored parts of our brain will open up if we take care of ourselves, continue learning, and face new challenges. As we continue nurturing our brain in this way, could we unlock capabilities we never thought possible?
With the rapid advancement of technology, the ability to unlock the brain’s potential is gradually becoming a reality. In the modern world, methods of brain intervention go beyond scientific research to include advanced technologies that can help us expand the brain’s capabilities quickly and effectively. But the big question remains: Can technology help us unlock 90% of the brain’s potential?
One of the most notable applications of technology in unlocking brain potential is brain stimulation using electromagnetic fields, also known as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). This method uses strong magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain, helping to improve memory, learning, and mood. I had the opportunity to participate in a TMS research study at a neuroscience institute, where scientists used this technology to treat depression and anxiety disorders. But the interesting thing wasn’t just in treating these conditions—it was in enhancing brain function. In experimental studies, participants showed improved memory and information processing after undergoing TMS treatment.
In addition to TMS, one of the technologies currently being widely researched is Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI). This technology allows us to communicate directly with computers using only our thoughts, without needing any physical devices. Imagine being able to control a robotic arm with just your mind or unlock your phone by imagining the action. This technology could not only help disabled individuals regain physical functions but also open up a future where we can directly and efficiently harness our brain’s potential.
However, the big question still remains: Can technology help us unlock the “sleeping” potential in our brains? The answer is likely yes, but not in the way we might expect. When we talk about “unlocking” unused parts of the brain, we need to understand that the brain is not a storage unit waiting to be accessed. Instead, it’s a complex system, with each part of the brain playing a role in various functions. Technology will help us understand and tap into these potentials, but it also requires us to have a deep and accurate understanding of how the brain works.
What I want to emphasize here is that modern technology doesn’t just help us explore but also enhance the capabilities of the brain. By combining scientific research, philosophical perspectives on human potential, and advanced technology, the brain’s potential will no longer be a mystery. But are we ready to access and unlock the secrets it holds?

Factors Affecting Brain Exploration
When we ask about unlocking the untapped potential of the brain, it’s difficult to provide a simple answer. The human brain is not a “tool” but a complex system where everything can change, develop, and adjust. So, what factors truly influence our ability to explore our brain? Is it simply a matter of utilizing a few more parts of the brain, or are there deeper influences silently affecting this process?
The first question I asked myself when I began researching the brain was: Does genetics determine everything? After years of research, I realized that although genetics significantly affects each person’s intellectual capacity, it is not the only determining factor. In other words, our brains can adapt and change not only based on what we are “born” with but also depending on how we nurture and develop our brains through our environment and daily habits.
Genetics can partially explain why some people have exceptional memory or creativity. Studies suggest that around 50% to 80% of an individual’s intellectual ability is determined by genetics. However, what’s interesting is that the human brain has a remarkable trait that not every organ possesses: the ability to change and restructure itself through the environment and life experiences. Our brains can learn, develop, and adapt to new conditions, a process known as neuroplasticity. So, how do our living environments and experiences influence the exploration of the remaining parts of our brain?
Throughout many years of research and personal experience, I’ve witnessed countless examples that confirm this theory. One clear example is a group of students in a special language learning program. These students not only learned a new language but also showed noticeable improvements in their ability to process information, their creativity, and even their ability to solve complex problems. Their brains didn’t just memorize new vocabulary; they expanded their thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
This confirms that the brain can be greatly developed through learning environments and the challenges we face in our daily lives. But is environment the only factor that determines the exploration of the brain? Certainly not. An essential factor that cannot be overlooked is lifestyle habits and nutrition. The behaviors and habits we form in our daily lives can deeply influence the brain’s ability to function.
So, this raises the next question: What lifestyle habits can help us explore the brain more effectively? One of the best habits, which I and many other studies agree on, is maintaining regular physical activity. Exercise not only improves physical health but also significantly impacts brain function. Research shows that regular exercise can enhance blood flow to the brain, improving thinking and memory abilities. Additionally, practices such as meditation or stress-reduction methods like yoga help improve focus, creativity, and decision-making abilities.
One of the most interesting things I experienced in a research program on lifestyle habits was that participants were able to enhance their creativity just by altering their diet and increasing light exercise. This made me realize that the brain is not a rigid organ that can only be accessed by forcing it to work harder, but a system that needs to be nurtured properly in order to maximize its potential.
So, in the journey of unlocking the brain, what can we do to maximize our capabilities? To answer this question, I believe the story of neuroplasticity is a key. The brain is not a fixed machine, but an organ that can be restructured, learn, and adapt. Therefore, every good habit we form in our daily lives can create significant changes in brain activity. The changes in lifestyle habits, from diet and exercise to learning and relaxation, are the essential factors that help unlock the hidden potential of the brain.
To continue answering the question of whether we can unlock 90% of the brain’s potential, we cannot overlook modern technology. In recent years, technology has made great strides in helping us better understand how the brain works and even in supporting the unlocking of its potential. Can these new technologies actually help us unlock the parts of the brain that we’ve never been able to reach?
One of the most interesting applications of technology in brain exploration is brain stimulation using magnetic fields, specifically the method called Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). This method uses magnetic fields to stimulate certain areas of the brain, helping to enhance cognitive abilities, memory, and even treat neurological disorders such as depression and anxiety. In the studies I’ve participated in, depression patients showed significant improvements after undergoing TMS therapy. Not only did they feel better mentally, but their memory and problem-solving abilities also improved dramatically.
Another exciting application I’ve encountered is Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology. This technology allows direct communication between the brain and external devices, such as computers, robots, or other assistive technologies. Scientists have experimented with implanting small devices into the brain, allowing users to control a computer or robot purely by thought. Imagine being able to open an app or control your phone without touching it—wouldn’t that be a breakthrough? Not only could this technology help restore functionality for paralyzed individuals, but it also holds the promise of enabling us to control our body’s muscles through thought.
Additionally, a prominent application in this field is artificial intelligence (AI). While we have yet to unlock 100% of the brain’s potential, we can simulate brain activity through intelligent AI systems. Scientists and engineers are increasingly developing deep learning models that mimic the brain’s cognitive and learning abilities. These models not only help us solve complex problems but also have applications in developing technologies to optimize brain function. One interesting example is machine learning programs that analyze vast amounts of human behavior data to propose optimal solutions, from improving learning abilities to developing effective treatments for neurological disorders.
But can technology truly unlock the parts of the brain that we still don’t fully understand? Yes, but to achieve this, we need a close integration of neuroscience, technology, and philosophy on human potential. Technology is not only a tool for exploration but also a means to expand the brain’s potential, bringing us closer to a world where human intelligence is no longer limited. And in the future, perhaps we will have the opportunity to explore the brain in ways that once only existed in science fiction films.

The Integration of Science and Philosophy in Unlocking Brain Potential
If technology can expand the boundaries of the brain, philosophy plays a crucial role in shaping how we understand and approach the brain’s latent capabilities. The brain is not just a tool for processing information; it is the foundation of thoughts, emotions, and deep knowledge. So, can we combine the fields of science and philosophy to fully unlock the brain’s potential? The answer is not only yes, but this integration is one of the key factors that will help us better understand the true meaning of human intelligence.
The first question I asked myself when exploring the relationship between science and philosophy in unlocking the brain was: What can philosophy explain about the hidden abilities of the brain? According to philosophy, humans are not merely physical entities existing in a material world, but we also have a spiritual nature, a unique consciousness. Philosophers like Descartes, Kant, and Heidegger have provided profound theories on the relationship between mind and matter. Descartes, famous for his phrase “Cogito, ergo sum” (“I think, therefore I am”), emphasized that the essence of humanity lies not only in the physical body but also in the thinking and awareness of the mind.
If we consider the brain as a tool for cognition, then consciousness is the bridge between the brain and the external world. Philosophy has pointed out that the brain is not merely a place for “storing” information; it is also a center of creativity and analysis through the process of perception. Modern philosophers suggest that the brain can “create” thoughts and concepts that we are not always consciously aware of. It’s fascinating to think of the brain not just as a biological computer but as an organ capable of extracting and generating new ideas, even though we have yet to fully understand its abilities.
This leads to an interesting question: Can we develop a “method for unlocking” the brain’s potential from a philosophical perspective? Philosophers like William James and John Dewey have argued that a large part of human consciousness is not directly perceivable but exists in the unconscious space. In this context, Dewey’s pragmatism challenges how we can transcend the limits of consciousness through action and experience. Dewey believed that humans could expand and enrich their cognitive abilities not only through theory but also through practical action and real-life experiences.
So, what can philosophy provide us in terms of unlocking the brain? It offers a holistic view of the brain’s potential—not just its ability to solve problems or store information, but its capacity to create consciousness, explore the connections between mind, emotions, and actions. Philosophy doesn’t just help us understand “what” we can do with the brain, but also “why” we would want to unlock it in such a way. By combining the deep insights from neuroscience about the brain’s activity with philosophical theories on consciousness and human nature, we can uncover new ways to explore the brain more effectively and meaningfully.
Thus, when looking at brain development, we should not only focus on techniques or technologies to improve brain performance but also consider a more comprehensive view of the relationship between cognition, experience, and consciousness. Philosophy is not a separate field but an integral part of the journey to unlocking the brain’s potential.
When we ask whether we can unlock 90% of the brain’s potential, another important question arises: What challenges are hindering our ability to explore the brain? The human brain is an incredibly complex system, and despite the significant advances made in neuroscience, there is still much we do not know. Unlocking the brain is not simply about “unlocking” unused parts but is a continuous process of understanding and development, requiring the integration of various factors from science, technology, education, and the environment.
One of the biggest challenges in unlocking the brain’s potential is our limited understanding of its complexity. While we know that the brain can learn, change, and develop, the exact mechanisms behind how the brain functions and develops remain a mystery. The millions of neurons in the brain are connected in ways we have yet to fully explain. Scientists are working hard to uncover this, but the complexity of the brain makes it challenging to simulate or replicate its cognitive functions in artificial systems like AI.
Another challenge comes from environmental factors. The brain develops not only from within but also from the experiences and environments in which we live. Factors such as stress, social environment, sleep, and nutrition profoundly affect our ability to unlock the brain. Negative habits can reduce our cognitive abilities, while an unsupportive environment (such as living in a stressful setting with little encouragement for creativity) can limit the brain’s development. Therefore, in addition to developing new technologies and methods, we also need to change our living environments, education, and personal habits to create conditions that allow the brain to reach its full potential.
However, alongside these challenges, there are numerous opportunities we can seize. With the rapid development of neuroscience technology, we are increasingly able to intervene deeper into the brain’s activity—not only through methods like brain stimulation but also via brain-computer interfaces that enable people to control devices by thought. These studies not only help enhance cognitive abilities but may also help us treat brain-related diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other neurological disorders. Technology will continue to help us “unlock” the brain’s latent potential, ushering in a new era of intellectual exploration and development.
We can also look forward to breakthroughs in the field of education, where modern learning methods, including experiential learning, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, will change how we explore and develop the brain’s potential. Building flexible learning environments that stimulate intellectual and creative thinking will be a crucial factor in optimizing the brain’s cognitive abilities.

The Future of Brain Exploration: Predictions and Prospects
Looking toward the future, a major question we must ask is: How will we unlock the potential of the brain in the coming decades? The human brain, despite being studied for thousands of years, remains an enigmatic system that we are just beginning to explore. However, advancements in technology and neuroscience have provided a fresh perspective on the possibility of expanding and developing the brain’s potential. So, how will our brains be explored in the future? And will new technologies and methods help us overcome current limitations?
One of the greatest prospects for brain exploration is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with neuroscience. Current research has shown that AI can not only help us better understand how the brain works but can also enhance human cognitive abilities through supportive technologies like brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). Imagine a day when all you need to do is think about completing a task, and AI could immediately analyze and provide suggestions to solve the problem. With advancements in both the brain and computer fields, we may even witness AI collaborating directly with the human brain to create a new type of intelligence, where the human mind is no longer limited by inherent physical and physiological constraints.
Moreover, a significant future development could be the advancement of brain implant technology. Research into microchip implants for the brain has already been tested in treating neurological conditions, but these breakthroughs also open up another possibility: using this technology to enhance cognitive abilities, improve work efficiency, and even directly transmit knowledge into the brain. If the brain can directly “connect” with external sources of information, we would no longer face the limitations of time and space in learning or accessing knowledge. Schools, research centers, and businesses could leverage this technology to help individuals unlock their full potential without the physical constraints of the body.
Could we “upload” human intelligence to a computer and vice versa, as depicted in science fiction films? In the near future, transferring consciousness or “uploading” human intelligence to machines could become a reality, offering the possibility of intellectual immortality. Scientists are researching brain scanning technologies and simulating neural models to replicate complex human cognitive processes into powerful computers capable of storing and processing vast amounts of data. This could not only preserve and transfer knowledge but also create AI systems that can develop and self-learn without human intervention.
An intriguing aspect of future brain exploration is the adjustment and optimization of cognitive processes through methods like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) or the use of drugs and chemicals to affect specific brain regions. These technologies have already been studied for treating conditions like depression, anxiety, and neurological disorders, but in the future, we may use them to improve memory, enhance creativity, or even accelerate information processing. With advancements in science and technology, these methods could become part of daily life, helping humans optimize brain function more effectively.
However, unlocking the brain’s potential also raises profound ethical and societal questions. Can we control the changes brought about by these technologies? Enhancing intelligence could create new inequalities between those who can access the technology and those who cannot. Additionally, there are concerns about privacy, data security, and the long-term consequences of intervening in the nervous system. These issues must be addressed before we can fully unlock our brains safely and responsibly.
The human brain, with over 100 billion neurons and millions of neural connections, remains an uncharted territory. Despite significant advances in neuroscience and technology, fully unlocking the brain’s potential is still a major challenge. This involves not only unlocking unused portions but also developing a deeper understanding of how the brain connects with consciousness, emotions, and our behaviors.
Nevertheless, with continuous progress in technology, neuroscience, and philosophy, the future of brain exploration is opening up unprecedented opportunities. We are on the brink of an era where the human brain will not only store information but will also serve as the foundation for a type of intelligence that transcends current limits. Although many challenges remain, the opportunities to optimize the brain and enhance cognitive abilities are gradually becoming a reality. To achieve this, we need a combination of science, technology, and philosophy, which will help open the door to a future where the human brain is no longer limited.